Brianna Leary

Air Force daughter

Nov. 6, 2012 - 01:22PM
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Last Updated: Nov. 6, 2012 - 01:22PM |

My dad has inspired me to accomplish dreams in life that I would have never thought of doing. My father, Tech. Sgt. Joshua Leary, has served the Air Force as an operating room technician for 16 years. He is currently medically retired due to PTSD, TBI and Post-Traumatic Migraines. It is because of him that I want to join the Air Force and serve this country.

As an Air Force child, I have experienced many life-altering events that have forever changed my outlook on life. I realize that I am blessed because not every child has the opportunity to view the world as I have. It is the reason that I am grateful for being loved and cared for by my wonderful father. Although he has faced many struggles, he is a strong warrior and has overcome each and every obstacle. These challenges were only tests that, in the end, strengthened our family bonds. I remember times when my father nearly gave up on life but due to the love this military family had, he pulled through and strengthened his relationship with our family.

My father has always had a passion to serve this country. He was inspired to do so since he was the son of an Army Sergeant himself. Serving others, whether it is for one person, many people or his nation, have always been a part of who my father is. For example, my father instantly volunteered to deploy to Kyrgyzstan in 2004 when his command asked for volunteers to sign up. This gave him such great pride. He also served as a volunteer for his Command's Children's Holiday Party at Davis-Monthan AFB. He played the role of Santa, which I was able to see the joy in each of the children's faces after they gave them their laundry list of desired presents. Even though he is currently retired, my father will try to serve our country in any way he can. He is a big help to anyone who needs it.

One day I want to follow in my dad's footsteps. Not only do I want to serve in the military medical field and volunteer in any way I can, I want to give others the love and care my father has given to me. He has taught me so much about life and what a true family is all about. It is because of him, I am inspired to achieve so much in my life. I am proud to call him my Father and I am proud to say that I am an Air Force child.